By Adam Alban
Many people are setting New Year's resolutions to improve themselves in 2023. Unfortunately, most of these resolutions will not be achieved. People often make a grandiose goal instead of something that can be achieved.
It’s hard to imagine running a marathon if you never have run a 5K, for example. Even if you don’t achieve your goal, but if you made progress, you have improved yourself. Say for instance you wanted to lose 25 pounds but “only” lost 15; that is still an improvement. Another example, you wanted to deposit $1000 in your savings account by year’s end but only ended up $650. You’re still better off than what you were at the beginning of the year. Below are some things on the health and safety side you might want to incorporate into your resolutions.
Home Safety
Have you checked to see if your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have expired? When was the last time you changed the batteries in those devices? Consider buying or replacing that expired fire extinguisher in the house. Practice your emergency plans with your family so you know what to do in case of fire, tornado, etc. Inventory your first aid and emergency kits in your house or workplace and restock any expired or needed items.
Financial Security
Poor money management not only affects your finances but worrying constantly about money can also affect your mental and physical health. Doing a few minor things can really increase your bottom line. Cooking at home can save you an immense amount of money compared to eating out and your meals can be much healthier. That $4 latte you buy every day could net you $1,460 by the end of the year if you made it at home instead. Financial experts say you should have between 3-6 months of your expenses saved in case of a job loss or medical emergency. Saving just a few dollars a week, every week, will put you in a better spot if disaster strikes. Are you properly insured in regards to your health, life and property? Get a review and find out.
Health and Wellness
“I’m going to eat healthy and exercise more” is a common resolution we hear. You’ll be much more successful if you work on it as a team. Having support whether you're dieting, exercising or trying to stop smoking is crucial. You are much more likely to exercise if you work out in a group setting where your presence is expected and it just becomes another meeting on your calendar. The same goes with dieting. It’s not easy to make the transition to healthier meals if the person across from you is eating a plate of fried chicken with ice cream for dessert. Working on an issue in a group adds accountability and lends support which usually leads to more successful outcomes.
Get the Support You Need
Don’t go it alone when trying to make a healthy change in your life. When starting a new exercise or dieting regimen, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor or a nutritionist for tips that might be specific to you. The health insurers that cover state employees have lots of free programs to help you lead a healthier life. CSEAP has great resources to increase your physical, mental and financial well-being and the Colorado QuitLine is dedicated to helping Coloradoans live a tobacco free life. Use these no-cost programs to help you succeed. If you slip a bit on the way to your goal, please don’t beat yourself up and quit. Just refocus and keep trying. The road to healthier and safer living is filled with many speedbumps. As long as you are progressing overall, you’re probably on the right path. Happy New Year and here’s to a safer, healthier 2023.
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